Top 15 Gluten-Free Lunch Spots to Enjoy in Dartmouth

Pascal Ferron

As a celiac, this is the place to eat!

Cristina Smiarowski

Went for dinner and it was excellent! The scallop risotto was the special that evening and it was delicious. Also had the jerk chicken risotto and cheesecake for dessert. Our group was also very happy about all of the gluten free options on the menu.

Samantha LeClaire

Best Smitty’s I have ever been to! The service and food is fantastic. I have a gluten allergy (celiac) and they have a specific gluten free menu along with options on the regular menu and have never gotten sick from the food ever!! They use different coloured plates for allergens, it’s very thoughtful.

Melissa Milberry

We went there today as a table of 5 and we were very excited as we heard very good things about their gluten free menu. No sooner did we order and a mouse ran across the floor below our table! The food came and I’m not sure what kind of meat is used in the egg rolls but they were the worst I’ve ever had. No one at the table ate as the food was not good. Photo attached of what was left due to the poor quality. I do not recommend it for the food! The atmosphere with the fish tanks was great for the kids! They loved watching the fish in the tanks and pond.

Kyle Crego

Fast, gluten free, and very nice employees. Stopped in for a Bangkok Bowl and a Thai curry soup. The bowl was nice - went with half rice/salad option and added chicken. The soup was good. Both dishes were gluten free. I’m in town for a trip and I’ll be going back to this restaurant again, knowing that it’s got GF options. Staff were both really nice to speak to and were happy to talk about the menu and the franchises across the country.

Ryley Mckellar

12/10. Stumbled upon this place. Out of the 5 day biz trip. I ate here 3 times. Not just for the food; which is incredible. (I am gluten free too!) But the service too.

Michelle Ryder

I had been to Side Hustle before twice and had such a lovely experience. So I’m not thrilled to write this. But feel the need to share as I am concerned about what happened to me. I popped into eat some lunch during burger week, and they only had a burger week menu. Really nothing else on it. Which as a small place I guess is expected. I was about to head out, and the server recommended the Thai chilli chicken, and I said I can’t eat really spicy food. I then asked if the gluten free Thai chilli chicken could be made less spicy as it was the ONLY thing on the menu that wasn’t beef, or tofu that could be made gluten free. The server said yes - the kitchen could not add the spicy chili jam to the burger. And I was like great I’ll have that. The burger came out, everything looked good. 3 bites in and I can barely breathe. They included the spicy chili jam, and as someone who can’t do super spicy items I nearly choked in the restaurant. It was quite embarrassing actually, I was coughing so hard I had tears streaming down my face. Made worse by how echoey the bar is itself. The server finally came by after I was coughing for several minutes and I told him there is spicy chili jam on this. He says he will get them to remake it. I had gotten nauseous from coughing so hard I don’t even want to eat more of the food that isn’t spicy (aka the fries I paid extra for)… So I just say no, thanks. You can take it. I had only eaten a handful of fries and a couple bites of the burger. It was pretty bad, I was pretty embarrassed. And I wasn’t even finished my cider before the bill was handed to me. They charged me for 50% of the meal, burger and fries even though I didn’t eat most of it. I likely should have said something to the server however I was already embarrassed from coughing so loudly. I likely will take a second thought before heading back as everything is expensive now, and I’d like to eat what I pay for.

Olivia Phillips

So. Many. Gluten-free. Options. I was overwhelmed by choices. Everything was delicious. Dolmades were amazing.

Sarah Kearsley

As a gluten-intolerant person this is my favorite place to order pizza!! They are serious about food allergies and I can trust them not to make me sick! Also the pizza is AMAZING!!! I can’t even tell it’s gluten free!! 10/10 the best pizza in HRM! And they have gluten free garlic fingers 😍

Kathy Tracey

Oh my. Such a wonderful experience. I despise being gluten-free and find it embarrassing to have to ask for options. Cassandra was so accommodating, and in short order, the manager was at the table, explaining things to me. The result was fantastic food. It was our wedding anniversary as well as my husband's birthday. So happy we chose to celebrate there. Thank you so very much. All of you. Oh, and the jalapeño margaritas? An absolute must have!!

BuchieJ

Good food. Gluten free options.

LD Ulrick

We recently visited the Dill Pickle Sandwich Bar and Cafe - choosing it because their menu offered gluten-free options—important for someone in our group who has celiac. Unfortunately, the experience didn’t quite live up to expectations. The interior could definitely use a bit of attention—it felt a little tired and didn’t offer the warm, welcoming vibe we were hoping for. That said, our server was friendly and did her best to accommodate us. After placing our order, we were told there was no gluten-free bread available. The staff offered to run out and buy some, which we appreciated in theory, but at that point the other meals were already being prepared and insulin had been taken—so waiting or leaving wasn’t a realistic option. Our gluten-free diner had to pick something else on the fly. As a Monte Cristo fan, I ordered it expecting the usual rich, indulgent sandwich. Instead, it was a basic ham-and-cheese on French toast—just one slice of each, with none of the heft or flavor the dish is typically known for. The coffee setup is self-serve, which isn’t a problem, but it would’ve been nice to be told that instead of just being handed an empty cup. I brought up the gluten-free issue with the owner at the end, and while she did agree to remove that meal from the bill, the conversation felt a bit tense. Our server, to her credit, apologized again and remained kind throughout. There’s potential here, and I don’t doubt the staff care—but between the atmosphere, food execution, and dietary oversight, it just didn’t quite hit the mark for us this time.

Shihan Ashley

Second time dining with Kim! Always lovely, efficient, & helpful when it comes to dietary restrictions. It’s been a game changer to have so many gluten free breakfast options at this location.

Alyssa Spencer

As a person with celiac disease, it’s hard to come across safe places for me to eat. I was pleasantly surprised to find Vines come up suggested for gluten free options. I decided to check it out with a friend of mine for supper yesterday and felt the experience was above and beyond what I anticipated! They seemed knowledgeable when I asked about gluten containing items such as sauces, and double checked with the kitchen to make sure. Mostly everything on their menu is able to be modified to be celiac friendly. I had the Cajun fettuccine and it was so delicious and flavourful! Was also pleasantly surprised when then came out with some warm gluten free bread and butter as I was not expecting to be that accommodated at all. Also had their peach sangria and it was very very tasty! I will definitely be returning to try some other menu items and am happy to recommend to fellow celiacs ☺️

Lillian McCallum

I absolutely love the crobster roll from the Canteen. The seafood tastes really fresh and every time I've been there, the servers have been friendly and nice. I've ordered the crobster roll both with the regular bread and the gluten free bun - and I feel like less seafood is given in the gluten free bun (it's a hamburger bun instead of bread slice). Overall, I'd love to come back next time I'm in Dartmouth and I would advise making a reservation beforehand as it's usually quite busy.

Caleb Burke (Cstyle4!)

Have dined here at least six times over the last two years. After being given a gift certificate from a colleague for a Christmas I enjoyed it so much that I asked my family to have my next birthday supper there and have been a few times since (with others even requesting we go their now for their celebrations which speaks volumes about how good the place is overall). It is a cozy restaurant (be sure to make reservations if going at peak times as I'm sure they fill up quickly) but there is enough space between tables and booths that it does not feel crowded. They set the atmosphere very well with dim lighting, candles and music played at a volume that is nice but not so loud that it is distracting or hinders conversation. The whole decor seems to match with a theme that comes office classy/intimate  but still accessible (would be a good place to go on a date I imagine). The staff are always appropriately pleasant, attentive and accommodating (my family are the kind that always as for things like extra napkins, condiments and other small but multiple requests that I am sure staff eventually find insufferable but never let it show). The time between being seated, ordering and receiving ones meal has been very reasonable everytime. Same sentiment when it come ordering take out as well. The food presents at appropriate temperatures, seems to be made with fresh ingredients and is Always delicious. Portion sizes are pretty average (usually can't eat it all so do take away some leftovers). My family has never sent anything back while coming there and that is a rarity. Also have been told their gluten free options are quite good. Have usually started of with either calamari or wonton soup which have always been nice. The ginger beef is so good that I have had it a couple of times now. The prices are reasonable and you are getting quality for what you pay. Will continue to keep it in mind whenever a suggestion for a place to dine is  brought up.

Colleen Bussard

First time checking this place out. It's not an easy place to find, but as soon as we opened the door, the look of the place was unique. Bar stools overlooked the main level lobby. The ascent to the restaurant itself was interesting. We did find the layout of the restaurant was not quite what we expected, but we stayed. A bit disappointed that there were no gluten friendly options for beer but settled for cider. The selection of burgers was very impressive. The food was excellent but best of all was our server; her name is Cat. She was friendly and attentive, knew the bar and menu offerings very well, and seemed happy to be there. It's always nice to be waited on someone who loves her job and that appears to be Cat!

Big G

Nice restaurant, could have some more gluten free options but overall very good.

Gina Adams

How many times have I passed by this place?! (smh) Our first experience - pretty sure it will NOT be our last! My daughter got Spring Rolls and the Green Curry and I chose Pad Thai w/Prawns. My body has a horrible intolerance to gluten (not Crohn’s) and a major cashew allergy, so when I expressed my dietary concerns to the gentleman taking my phone order, he was very attentive and clear on what I needed to know regarding their practice. Very modest, immaculate dining space! Pleasant service! Generous, super-flavourful servings of food! Sooo happy they are close to home for us! Talay Thai, you have two new customers! 😄

Don Backa

The name has changed but the food and staff are still the best there is! Consistent, excellent food and service is why I have been a customer since 2009! They also have an excellent Gluten free option that suits the celiacs friends I have very well! Great spot!

Liz Serinken

Delicious crepes, great selection, friendly staff. Also gluten free are available. My favourite is lemon sugar. Highly recommend.

Allison Mahar

As a celiac I have to be very careful eating out. From the hostess to the waitress everyone made me feel completely comfortable and at ease. I had the Mushroom truffle burger. It was delicious! Alexa was an outstanding waitress! Thank you so much!

Jaya Fahey

I have celiac disease and have ordered the gluten free pizza numerous times without issue. Really yummy and I especially like the meat lovers, butter chicken and the Punjabi classic!

Madison DeGrass

This was the best breakfast I have ever had. The service was amazing they were so nice and so accommodating. I have celiac disease and they had so many amazing options to choose from. 10/10 experience.

New Muslim (53Fri29Feb2024)

Excellent food! Some gluten free options. Once they made pasta for me with a box of unopened GF noodles, and it was one of the best pastas I've ever eaten. (And I used to work fine dining and gourmet catering in Toronto!) But they told me once only, because of "sanitary" reasons. I was disappointed with this. I can understand if I brought in raw meat or fish, but dry pasta in a box does not pose any sanitary issues at all. Anyhow, the staff are good and friendly, it's kind of like "Cheers" (the old tv sitcom). Worst is that the walls and ceilings are square and reflective, so it is REALLY LOUD when full. Great place great food. But please, have a couple boxes of GF noodles on hand!

Bob McCord

We went to Upstreet for dinner. Had one of the platters and it was amazing. The brisket is to die for. I would go back just for the brisket. Also great gluten free options. Was very happy to see that on the menu.

Cindy Chan

I recently visited this sushi spot and was so impressed! Not only did they offer a wide variety of gluten-free options, but I was also thrilled to discover they have oshi sushi on the menu! It's not something you see often, so it was a real treat. The quality of the fish was fresh, and the flavors were on point. The staff was also incredibly knowledgeable and helpful in guiding me through their gluten-free options. Highly recommend this place for anyone looking for a great sushi experience, especially if you have dietary restrictions!

Morgan Miller

The owner and the staff are so genuine and happy to see you, it makes for such a wonderful sippin’ or shoppin’ experience. Such unique gifts, incredibly delicious coffee and gluten free goodies for us Celiacs! If you haven’t been in, do yourself a favour and go! Large patio in the back is perfect for the Summer season!

Lindsay Fennema

What a wonderful gem, Sai is a kind and friendly owner. There are lots of options and authentic tasting Asian cuisine with plenty of vegan, gluten free and vegetarian friendly food.

Fiona Baker

I absolutely love everything about USTA!! All the food is fresh and delicious! The staff are always very friendly and pay attention to my gluten-free needs. Lots on the Menu that is naturally gluten-free. I would highly recommend!!

Jesax Eight

Food is always so good and fresh. Servers are also very nice and the kitchen could accommodate some dishes for a celiac friend.

Māḷagi

My favorite noodle place, especially for Gluten Free options. They have separate allergies friendly menu and staff very nice. Their food is very good and you can't finish the portion they serve.

Aimee Daigle

Ate dinner here on the Sunday of labour day weekend. We were a party of 6 and had an early reservation. Our server Jenn (Jem) was not only an excellent server, she should also have her own comedy show. She was playful and hilarious. She made the experience a 10/10. Everyone’s food was also great. We had a variety of items and they were able to accommodate with gluten free, dairy free, and vegetarian options.

Shawna Strowbridge

My father in law was down from Newfoundland and we had to order him a gluten free pizza and he said it was the best he ever had. Thank you

Ashley “AP”

100% worth a try for some elevated pub fare and flavourful food! This was suggested by a friend from Alberta and we were pleased with the experience. There was a feature menu with some enticing items (including the Reuben) and the regular menu had a good amount of choices including some gluten-free options. I chose to have the blackened haddock (GF) and the sauce tasted homemade and a refreshing change from the usual haddock preparations you find in Halifax. The Reuben was loaded with all the good stuff and fries were the right amount of crisp without tasting dry. They offer a 1/2 and 1/2 salad and fries combo for most of the handhelds and burgers which is such a lovely touch and not something you see enough these days. Caesar salad has a nice zing to it and also tasted freshly prepared. If we come back we will certainly try more items! They carried the local Coldstream seltzers as well for a very fair price. Dartmouth location is away from the busy scene and gives you that nice view of the water.

Mallory Drake

Chanoey's in Dartmouth was the first place I got takeout when I moved here, and has since become my favorite place to eat. The owners are sweet and kind, the food is delicious and fairly priced, and the atmosphere of the restaurant itself is great. They are very accommodating people like me that can't eat gluten and they are very diligent about preventing cross contamination. If I have friends or family in town, I always recommend they stop into Chanoey's.

Maddison Schofield

Food is always good. I am gluten free and their cauliflower crust is to die for. I normally sit at the bar and seven is so sweet and accommodating l. If you’re planning on coming in definitely ask for seven she is amazing!!

Greg Chor

Awesome Gluten-free Curried Lamb Stew and Wednesday night trivial pursuit.

Jerry Mc

MeterMaidMuzik RJLangevin

I've been popping in over the last year or so and I can honestly say Station1 is one of the top places for vegetarian protien dishes. The fries are amaazing. Had them today. The FALAFELS ARE THE BEST ♡ in HRM perhaps NS imo. The Baklava is well made...YUM. I'll be back to try more of the menu. Lots of gluten free options. There has been some minor price hikes yet that has been happening everywhere. I'd rather put good dollars on good energizing food anyday than carb/junk food fillers. Totally worth it! (Will try upload a photo)

Tasha Prosper

Gluten-free crusted pizza was delicious. Will be my go in Dartmouth!

Chris L

Delicious pizza and they have gluten free crust!

doc chef

Good quality and portion size. Service was great as well. Very accommodating for gluten free options on the AYCE menu

Peter Gilfoy

I go here way too much. Love the folks there. Two lines of singnature hot is perfect. Get the bowl for Gluten free. Their loyalty program is great. Remember to tell them you're redeeming before they ring you in.

Amber Mouland

Nikhil served us and was so kind and helpful. He offered great service! A great place for someone who is gluten free.

Alberta Dennis

s lupien

Great food. Good gluten-free options. Friendly staff

Lior Seidel

A wide variety of gluten-free options. Dedicated fryer

B Mac

Consistently awesome. Safe gluten-free pizza for my wife who has celiac disease. Picky kids loved the pepperoni and cheese. Today I had the wings for the first time. El Centro rub and Memphis sauce. Awesome. I’ve had several of the pizza flavours and never disappointed. I hope they are a long term neighbourhood fixture.

Anthony Alvarado